In this post, I will reveal the best antivirus Reddit users recommended.
If you’re keen on cybersecurity, you understand the value of a reliable antivirus. However, finding a program that fits the reliable description is not always simple.
One way I make light of the task is by drawing insights from those who have used the antivirus. Without question, Reddit is one of the best social platforms to find such user reviews.
I evaluated the different antivirus programs recommended by legitimate Reddit users to see how they compare.
In my best antivirus Reddit review, I considered different factors, including:
- Protection range
- Ease of use
- System requirements
- Features
- Price
- Support availability
Hence, you can trust the selections on this page to offer quality performance in safeguarding your devices from malware.
Now, let's get to the best antivirus Reddit users recommended list.
Table of Contents
Best Antivirus Reddit 2024
| Feature | TotalAV Antivirus | Surfshark Antivirus | Malwarebytes | Norton 360 | Kaspersky | McAfee | ESET | AVG Ultimate | Sophos | Avira |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (per year) | $50-$100 | $40 | $40-$80 | $50-$100 | $30-$100 | $50-$100 | $40-$80 | $80-$130 | $50-$90 | $40-$80 |
| Free version | No | No | Yes, limited features | Yes, limited features | Yes, limited features | Yes, limited features | Yes, limited features | Yes, limited features | No | Yes, limited features |
| Malware detection rate | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
| Performance impact | Low | Low | Moderate | Moderate | Low | Moderate | Low | Moderate | Low | Low |
| Features | VPN, password manager, ad blocker | VPN, ad blocker | Real-time protection, anti-malware, anti-exploit | VPN, parental controls, password manager, dark web monitoring | Parental controls, vulnerability scanner, ransomware protection | Identity theft protection, firewall, game mode | Firewall, anti-spam, anti-phishing | VPN, system optimizer, tune-up tools | Ransomware protection, web filtering, data encryption | Browser extensions, password manager, data leak monitoring |
| Ease of use | Very easy | Very easy | Easy | Easy | Easy | Easy | Easy | Easy | Easy | Easy |
| Reddit community opinion | Mixed, praised for value and features | New, growing popularity | Highly recommended for on-demand scanning | Top recommendation, praised for features and security | Excellent reputation for security | Reliable option, strong on performance | High marks for security and user-friendliness | Good performance, feature-rich | Reliable for businesses, good for home users | Popular free version, decent paid options |
Now, check out the top 10 antivirus software I handpicked after evaluating recommendations from Reddit users.
1. TotalAV Antivirus
Total AV offers versatile protection across Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices. The software allows you to safeguard up to 6 devices. Also, the apps are user-friendly, which is why many Reddit users recommend it.
From my review, the real-time protection scans downloads, installs, and executables for viruses and potential threats. This helps keep your device free from harmful elements. There’s also WebShield to secure your online experience. Particularly, the feature defends against fake, scam, and phishing websites.
Total AV goes beyond virus protection to address interruptive ads. It not only blocks unlimited ads but also eliminates pop-ups and notifications that can disrupt your browsing. All this is thanks to the Total AdBlock tool.
Total AV Pricing
Here are Total AV’s pricing plans:
- Antivirus Pro: $29 for the first year (Renews at $119 per year)
- Internet Security: $39 for the first year (Renews at $145 per year)
- Total Security: $49 for the first year (Renews at $179 per year)
2. Surfshark Antivirus
This best antivirus Reddit users recommended offers security tailored to your convenience. With real-time protection, it ensures you're shielded from viruses on the go using manual or scheduled scans. You have the option to run scans at any time and exclude certain files or folders.
One standout feature is the Webcam protection that prevents unauthorized access to your camera. It also notifies you if anyone attempts to breach your privacy.
Since new viruses launch almost daily, the Surfshark Antivirus software is constantly updated. The Cloud Protect feature operates round the clock as a defence mechanism against emerging malware. Hence, it safeguards your device from even unidentified harm.
You can get Surfshark Antivirus with three additional products to get a security suite. These include the VPN, Alert, and Private Search tools. All are included in the Surfshark One Bundle.
Surfshark Antivirus Pricing
Surfshark has monthly, annual, and biannual plans. Here are the pricing plans for Surfshark One, which includes the Antivirus:
- 1-Month Plan: $13.99 per month
- 12-Month Plan: $4.09 per month (billed at $49.08 for the first year)
- 24-Month Plan: $2.69 per month (billed at $75.32 for the first 28 months)
3. Malwarebytes
Malwarebytes earns its spot as a top antivirus, according to Reddit, with robust protection against a range of threats.
The software is a strong defender against modern threats like ransomware, phishing, credit card skimmers, scammers, and more. It offers simple control via an intuitive user interface. So, you can customize protection to your preferences.
For a boosted web experience, Malwarebytes features Browser Guard, which blocks malicious threats, ads, and third-party trackers. This not only ensures a safer online experience but also means faster and more private browsing. You can use it on Chrome, Firefox, Edge, and Safari.
The Security Advisor is another recommended feature. It delivers expert guidance by highlighting your real-time security status. Such insights help you make informed decisions and take necessary actions regarding your security. You can use it on Windows and Mac.
Malwarebytes Pricing
With Malwarebytes, you get personal, team, and business pricing plans. For personal, here are the prices:
- Standard Plan for 1 Device: $3.75 per month
- Standard Plan for 3 Devices: $5 per month
- Plus Plan for 3 Devices: $6.67 per month
- Plus Plan for 5 Devices: $8.33 per month
Note that all Malwarebytes plans are billed annually.
4. Norton 360
Here’s an antivirus that’s relatively popular among professionals. It provides advanced security with real-time threat protection. Particularly, you can rely on the software feature to safeguard your device against existing and emerging online threats. It ensures your private and financial information is safe when online.
Norton goes beyond just antivirus protection by offering a Password Manager. This tool can store and manage not just passwords but also credit card details and other credentials.
If you use a Windows PC, Norton introduces a Smart Firewall, while Mac users benefit from a dedicated Firewall. These features actively monitor traffic between your computer and others to block any unauthorized access. Hence, it boosts your overall digital defence.
Another key feature is the PC Cloud Backup. It allows you to store important files and documents against data loss. This can be handy in cases of hard drive failures, stolen devices, or even ransomware attacks.
Norton 360 Pricing
Norton 360 offers varying pricing plans for different products. You can find them all below:
- Norton Antivirus Plus: $19.99 for the first year ($59.99 per year afterwards)
- Norton 360 Standard: $39.99 for the first year ($94.99 per year afterwards)
- Norton 360 Deluxe: $49.99 for the first year ($119.99 per year afterwards)
- Norton 360 with LifeLock Select: $99.99 for the first year ($179.99 per year afterwards)
5. Kaspersky
Another mention on our list of the best antivirus Reddit, we have Kaspersky, a comprehensive suite that covers more than antivirus protection. You’ll also get payment security and various privacy and ID protection features if you pick this option. It's a reliable solution that works across Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS platforms.
Kaspersky's features include real-time antivirus protection, online payment security, and performance optimization. Also, the software includes an unlimited superfast VPN, a data leak checker, and identity protection. One highlight is the expert virus check and removal tool, which ensures a thorough defence against online threats.
What Reddit users appreciate most about Kaspersky is the use of cutting-edge AI technology. It’s available in all plans and enables Kaspersky to detect and halt various online threats, including zero-day viruses.
Kaspersky Pricing
Check out Kaspersky Pricing plans for home users below:
- Standard Plan: $19.99 per year
- Plus Plan: $28.99 per year
- Premium Plan: $30.99 per year
6. McAfee
Number six on our list of best antivirus Reddit is McAfee. With a legacy of trust, McAfee boasts of being a leader in consumer security, safeguarding over 600 million devices. The award-winning software is now fortified with AI for enhanced speed and strength.
McAfee offers up to 3x faster scans, ensuring optimal PC performance without lagging. With the advanced firewall, you get 10x more protection with state-of-the-art threat intelligence. It’s not surprising, then, that the software has been recognized as a top product by AV-Test.org.
Thanks to the user-friendly design, it’s easy to connect and manage all your devices. You do so from a single dashboard. The Virus Protection Pledge offers a 100% guarantee to remove viruses from your devices or provide a refund on your subscription.
McAfee Antivirus Pricing
There are three main pricing plans to choose from as a McAfee user, including:
- McAfee Advanced: $89.99 per year
- McAfee Premium: $49.99 per year
- McAfee Plus: $39.99 per year (for 2 years plan)
7. ESET
ESET proves to be a reliable antivirus, which is why it’s a top antivirus pick for many Reddit users. It provides multi-platform protection across Windows, macOS, Android, and even Linux. You can rely on the software to safeguard your data from ransomware attacks and prevent unauthorized access by hackers.
If you frequently shop and bank online, ESET proves reliable. You can conduct transactions with confidence, knowing that the antivirus is protecting your sensitive information. The software can also secure all connected smart devices at home.
Like a few other antivirus on this list, ESET has a password manager. So, it simplifies your digital life by safely storing and auto-filling your passwords. You won’t have to memorize them all the time.
ESET Antivirus Pricing
This antivirus software has a flexible pricing structure, depending on the number of devices you’re paying for. You can find out the base prices below:
- ESET Essential: Starts at $59.99 per year for 3 devices
- ESET Premium: Starts at $69.99 per year for 3 devices
- ESET Ultimate: $204.99 per year for 10 devices
8. AVG Ultimate
Another notable entry among the best antivirus Reddit users recommended is AVG Ultimate.
There are many upsides to using a staunch antivirus like AVG Ultimate. First, the software provides robust protection against hackers, ransomware, and various types of malware. Beyond security, AVG Ultimate boosts your device's performance.
You get to experience a 30% boost in speed and a 79% quicker startup time. This is thanks to a suite of powerful optimizations and cleanup options. This efficiency is appreciated by Reddit users who want protection and a seamless digital experience.
The powerful 256-bit encryption is another noteworthy feature. It secures your devices with military-grade encryption. This feature is particularly useful if you access public Wi-Fi, as it keeps you safe and anonymous.
Notably, AVG Ultimate doesn't limit its coverage, as it offers protection for up to 10 devices. Whether it's PCs, Macs, or mobiles, AVG ensures that each device receives top-notch security.
AVG Antivirus Pricing
One of the main advantages of the AVG antivirus software is that you can use it for free. However, you’ll have to go with any of the below premium plans if you want more protection:
- AVG Internet Security: $59.88 for the first year ($99.99 per year afterward)
- AVG Ultimate: $79.99 for the first year ($139.99 per year afterward)
Note that with each premium payment, you get to protect up to 10 devices.
9. Sophos
A software as comprehensive as Sophos receives applause across the Reddit community. It impresses with its Malware Scan and Clean feature. Starting with a deep scan, it checks for hidden threats, viruses, trojans, rootkits, spyware, and more.
Sophos takes a futuristic step with AI Threat Detection. You can rely on it for protection against a wide range of threats, even those not widely known yet.
Ransomware Security is also a standout feature, as it safeguards your personal files and photos. Not only will Sophos block ransomware, but it’ll also return affected files to their original state.
The software further includes Web Protection to fend off compromised websites — like phishing sites. This ensures safe browsing, banking, and shopping experiences. Additionally, Sophos adds extra browser security and automatically scans your downloads to enhance overall online safety.
Sophos Pricing
The plan I went for was Sophos' Home, and the options were straightforward. You simply pay for the number of years you want to use the software.
Check out the pricing below:
- 1-year Subscription: $44.99 per year
- 2-year Subscription: $74.99 per year
- 3-year Subscription: $104.99 per year
10. Avira
If you want a free antivirus you can rely on, many Reddit users recommend Avira. One major reason is its constant real-time monitoring and protection against malware. These include viruses, worms, Trojans, and ransomware, to name a few.
Avira's free version allows you to run regular system scans. If there’s a suspicious file, its digital fingerprint is uploaded to the Avira Protection Cloud. Then, it undergoes real-time scanning against an extensive threat database. Avira will quickly quarantine and eliminate such files if infected.
With the Pro version, security goes further with signature-based and activity-based analyses. Such a dual approach enables the software to detect even unidentified ransomware. Also, with the advanced web protection feature, you get safety for your online activities.
Avira Pricing
Avira has a free version; however, if you want more protection from Avira, then you have to go for the Prime solution. Here are its pricing plans:
- Avira Prime: $83.88 per year
- Avira Internet Security: $46.99 per year
- Avira Antivirus Pro: $35.99 per year
Why Trust Reddit Reviews?
Based on my experience, user reviews on Reddit can be pivotal when searching for the best antivirus. The comments come from real-world experiences, so they offer valuable insights into the actual performance of the antivirus program. As you go through them, you’ll find that Reddit users share their encounters.
Particularly, they provide information on whether the antivirus is reliable in safeguarding against malware, viruses, and other cyber threats.
This firsthand information gives you a realistic expectation of what to anticipate from a particular antivirus. Hence, I maintain that following legit reviews from users on Reddit can be helpful.
Best Antivirus Reddit: Frequently Asked Questions
What Is An Antivirus Software?
Antivirus software, also known as anti-malware software, is a program designed to protect your computer and other devices from malicious software (malware).
This includes threats like:
- Viruses: These can replicate and spread, causing damage to your files and system.
- Worms: Similar to viruses, but they can spread across networks without needing human interaction.
- Trojans: These disguise themselves as legitimate programs to trick you into installing them, then steal your data or harm your system.
- Spyware: Monitors your activity and gathers information without your knowledge, often for malicious purposes.
- Adware: Floods you with unwanted advertisements and can be difficult to remove.
Here's how antivirus software works:
- Scanning: It scans your files, emails, and internet traffic for suspicious patterns or known malware signatures.
- Detection: If it finds a threat, it alerts you and gives you options to remove it.
- Removal: It can quarantine or delete the malware to prevent it from causing harm.
- Real-time protection: Many antivirus programs run in the background, continuously monitoring your system for threats.
What Are The Benefits Of Using An Antivirus Software Reddit?
Reddit users highlight several benefits of using antivirus software:
- Enhanced Security: Antivirus software acts as a shield against malware, protecting your personal data, financial information, and system from harm.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your device is protected can give you peace of mind, especially when browsing the web or downloading files.
- Improved System Performance: Some antivirus programs include features that optimize your system performance by removing unnecessary files and freeing up resources.
- Additional Features: Many antivirus software offer additional features like firewalls, parental controls, password managers, and VPNs.
What is truly the best antivirus?
There is no single “best” antivirus software as it depends on your individual needs and budget. However, Reddit users frequently recommend the following options:
Top Recommendations
- Norton 360: Praised for its excellent malware detection rates, comprehensive feature set (including VPN and parental controls), and user-friendly interface.
- Avira: Offers a popular free version with good malware protection and additional features like browser extensions and password management (premium versions offer more advanced features).
- Surfshark Antivirus: A reliable antivirus solution with a focus on security and performance. It offers excellent malware detection and a user-friendly interface.
- McAfee: Provides robust protection with a range of features, including identity theft protection, firewall, and game mode.
- TotalAV: Budget-friendly option with good malware protection.
Other Options:
- Intego: Considered the best antivirus for Mac users.
- Trend Micro: Popular AI-powered antivirus for any operating system.
What antivirus do you recommend Reddit?
My recommendation would depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some questions to consider:
- What is your budget? Free antivirus options are available, but premium versions offer more features and advanced protection.
- What features are important to you? Do you need a VPN, parental controls, or other security features?
- What operating system do you use? Some antivirus software is specifically designed for Windows, macOS, or Android.
- What is your level of technical expertise? Some antivirus programs are more user-friendly than others.
Once you have considered these factors, you can research the options mentioned above and read reviews from Reddit users to make an informed decision.
Is Avast a good antivirus Reddit 2024?
Avast has received mixed reviews on Reddit in 2024. Some users praise its free version for providing basic protection, while others criticize its performance impact and past data privacy concerns.
Some independent testing labs have also raised concerns about its effectiveness against certain malware types. Ultimately, whether Avast is a good choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Which antivirus is worth buying?
Several antivirus programs are considered “worth buying” in 2024, depending on your budget and needs. Here are some options:
- Best overall: Total AV offers comprehensive security, excellent performance, and valuable additional features like VPN and parental controls.
- Best value: Surfshark Antivirus provides top-notch protection at a competitive price and is known for its lightweight performance.
- Best free option: AVG and Avira Free Antivirus offer basic protection and additional features like browser extensions and password management.
- Best for advanced users: Malwarebytes provides powerful security features and customization options for experienced users.
Do you need antivirus Reddit 2024?
While not absolutely essential, using antivirus software in 2024 is highly recommended for several reasons:
- Increased online threats: Malware and cybercrime are constantly evolving, making it crucial to have protection.
- Vulnerable personal data: Your personal information and files can be compromised by malware, leading to identity theft and financial losses.
- System protection: Malware can damage your system and disrupt its functionality.
- Peace of mind: Knowing you're protected can provide peace of mind when using your computer and browsing the internet.
Bottom Line
There you have it: my picks of the best antivirus software after reviewing recommendations from Reddit users.
If you’re looking for a solution to keep your device free from malware, pick an option from the above list.
You’ll find both free and premium options with flexible pricing plans. So, regardless of your budget, you should find an antivirus that works.
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About the Author:
Meet Angela Daniel, an esteemed cybersecurity expert and the Associate Editor at SecureBlitz. With a profound understanding of the digital security landscape, Angela is dedicated to sharing her wealth of knowledge with readers. Her insightful articles delve into the intricacies of cybersecurity, offering a beacon of understanding in the ever-evolving realm of online safety.
Angela's expertise is grounded in a passion for staying at the forefront of emerging threats and protective measures. Her commitment to empowering individuals and organizations with the tools and insights to safeguard their digital presence is unwavering.
